Black kitchen cabinets are a bold and stylish choice that instantly give your kitchen a modern and elegant vibe. Whether you prefer matte or glossy finishes, black cabinetry fits into many design styles from contemporary to farmhouse. These cabinets are perfect for creating contrast or adding a dramatic touch.
Choosing black cabinets doesn’t mean your kitchen has to feel dark or gloomy. When paired with the right countertops, backsplash, and lighting, black kitchen cabinets can actually make your space feel more open and refined. This timeless color works great in both small and large kitchens.
From minimalist looks to more cozy and layered designs, there are plenty of ways to use black kitchen cabinets in your home.
1. Matte Black Cabinets with Brass Hardware

Matte black kitchen cabinets with brass hardware are a favorite in modern homes. The soft finish of the matte black keeps things sleek, while the brass adds warmth and shine. Together, they bring a stylish contrast that stands out without being too flashy.
This combo works great with white walls and wood floors, making your kitchen feel balanced and not too dark. You can also add open wooden shelves to soften the overall look. It’s an easy way to make your kitchen feel elegant yet cozy.
2. Black Cabinets with White Countertops
Black cabinets paired with white countertops offer a timeless and clean look. The contrast between light and dark makes the space feel fresh while keeping that modern vibe. It also helps black cabinetry feel less heavy.
Quartz or marble countertops in white look especially good with black cabinetry. This combo works well in both small and large kitchens. Add some pendant lights and light backsplash tiles to complete the fresh and elegant look.
3. All-Black Modern Kitchen

If you love bold design, an all-black kitchen can feel super chic. Black cabinets, black backsplash, and black countertops create a seamless, dramatic look. When done right, it looks sleek and very modern.
To avoid the space feeling too dark, use under-cabinet lighting or add glass-front upper cabinets. You can also use different textures like matte cabinets and glossy tiles to add depth and interest. It’s a high-impact style for people who love a bold statement.
4. Black Shaker Cabinets for a Classic Look
Black shaker cabinets bring a timeless style with a modern twist. The clean lines of shaker cabinets make them a great choice for many homes. Painting them black gives them a fresh, updated feel.
You can pair them with wood countertops for a more rustic touch or go with stone for a sleek look. This style works well in both traditional and contemporary kitchens. Add classic hardware to finish the look.
5. Two-Tone Cabinets with Black Lowers

Using black cabinets on the bottom and a lighter color on top gives your kitchen a trendy two-tone look. This setup keeps your space from feeling too dark while still enjoying the boldness of black.
White or light gray uppers pair beautifully with black lowers. It helps open up the space visually. This layout is especially great for smaller kitchens or apartments where you want style without losing light.
6. Black Cabinets with Open Wood Shelving
Combining black cabinets with open wood shelves blends modern and rustic styles. The wood adds warmth and texture, while the black base cabinets ground the space and give it structure.
This idea works well in farmhouse and Scandinavian-style kitchens. You can display dishes or plants on the shelves to soften the look. It’s a great way to mix modern design with cozy charm.
7. Glossy Black Cabinets for a High-End Feel

Glossy black kitchen cabinets reflect light and give your kitchen a high-end, polished look. They are sleek and shiny, making your space look clean and modern. This finish works especially well in minimal and urban-style kitchens.
To balance the shine, pair glossy black cabinets with matte countertops or a neutral backsplash. Keep the accessories simple for a sleek and clutter-free vibe. It’s a great choice for those who want a luxe kitchen on a budget.
8. Industrial Style Black Cabinets
For an edgy and raw look, go with black cabinets in an industrial-style kitchen. Pair them with concrete countertops, metal fixtures, and exposed brick walls for that warehouse-style charm.
Black cabinets in this setup create a strong base for your design. Open shelving, pipe details, and Edison bulb lighting complete the look. It’s perfect for lofts or modern homes with a bit of character.
9. Black Cabinets with Gold Accents

Black and gold is a classic pairing that never fails to impress. Gold hardware, lighting, or faucets can warm up black cabinets and make your kitchen feel more inviting.
Try brushed gold or antique brass to avoid a too-glam look. It adds elegance without being flashy. This pairing looks especially good in kitchens with white or marble details.
10. Small Kitchens with Black Cabinets
Even in a small kitchen, black cabinets can shine. With the right layout and lighting, black cabinetry won’t make your kitchen feel cramped. In fact, it can make it feel more modern and put-together.
Stick with clean lines and keep clutter to a minimum. Use light flooring, open shelving, or glass doors to create visual space. It’s all about balance — and black cabinets can totally work in tight spaces.